Is the voice in your head telling you it’s time to upgrade to fiber-powered internet? For once, listen to it and get on board with Kinetic by Windstream.
What’s so special about Kinetic by Windstream you ask? The ultra-fast symmetrical speeds are certainly noteworthy, but there’s a lot more to be excited about. Affordable contract-free fiber plans with unlimited data and 99.9% network reliability make it a prominent star in the universe of internet providers.
Windstream Internet self-installation option is yet another reason to hop on the network – time-saving and cost-effective being the keywords here. Not too confident about setting up your home network without professional help? Our comprehensive self-install guide will surely change your mind.
What Equipment Do I Need to Self-Install Windstream Internet?
To avail Kinetic by Windstream self-install option, your home needs to be fiber-ready. Professional installation would be the only option if your home’s existing internet infrastructure has to be replaced.
Everything required for DIY Windstream Internet setup will be mailed to your address. All you have to do is select the “self-install” option at checkout while ordering online.
Here’s what you’ll receive in the installation kit:
- Fiber-optic cable
- Optical Network Terminal (ONT) device
- Kinetic Wi-Fi Gateway
- Ethernet Cable
- Power Cord
Note: You may use your own router if you don’t wish to lease the Windstream Gateway.
Step-by-Step Guide for Installing Windstream Internet
Ready to commit to the DIY approach? Get Kinetic by Windstream up and running in four simple steps:
Step 1: Unbox and Prepare Your Equipment
Once you’ve registered for Kinetic by Windstream and chosen the DIY route, the self-install kit shall be delivered within 3-5 working days. When you get to unboxing, double-check that you’ve received all the necessary items along with an instruction manual.
The DIY Windstream Internet setup will take an hour, tops. However, if you realize that something is missing or you are facing any sort of confusion, do not hesitate to contact Windstream Customer Support.
Step 2: Connect Your Modem and Router
Assuming you’ve leased the Kinetic Wi-Fi Gateway, self-install will be a breeze. The best thing about using the provider’s equipment is that you don’t run into incompatibility issues. Nonetheless, the steps will be the same even if you’re using your own router.
A fiber connection for your home requires a wall port that is particularly designated for a fiber line. The ONT device, which replaces a standard modem, will be connected to the fiber line outlet (inside or outside your house) using a fiber-optic cable.
On the ONT device, look for the LAN port and plug in the ethernet cable. The other end of the ethernet cable will go into the WAN port of your gateway/router. After you’ve connected the ONT with your gateway/router, power up both devices using the provided power cords.
Note: The ONT device is positioned wherever you have a fiber line outlet, but the gateway/router must be placed in a central location to obtain good WiFi connectivity throughout your home.
Step 3: Activate Your Windstream Internet
To activate Kinetic by Windstream Internet for your home network, you need to connect your gateway/router to a computer via an ethernet cable. After that, you open a web browser to access the Windstream Internet service setup page (the link is provided on the equipment box).
To register an online account and activate your service, click on “Set up online access” below the Sign In button. You’ll be directed to a page where you can verify your account using contact information. Following verification, you’ll be taken to a page to activate your new internet device.
Simply select “Internet” to get a prompt asking if you have new equipment that requires activation. Once you click “Yes” the activation process begins, which takes up to ten minutes.
Note: When ordering your Kinetic by Windstream Internet plan, you get to select the activation date at checkout. Your home internet won’t activate before the chosen date even if you receive the self-install kit at an earlier time.
Step 4: Test Your Internet Connection
After receiving a notification for the completion of the activation process, you can proceed with testing your new internet connection. In case there was an error during activation, it is best to contact customer service for assistance.
If all seems well, use the default WiFi name and password provided on the equipment box to connect your devices. Running an internet speed test is also recommended to ensure that the provider is delivering the promised download and upload speeds.
Troubleshooting Common Installation Problems
| PROBLEM | SOLUTION |
|---|---|
| No Signal |
|
| Device Not Connecting to Wi-Fi |
|
| Slow Speeds |
|
Tips for Optimizing Your Windstream Internet
Internet outages and downtime may occur once in a while, which are likely to be out of your control. However, there are ways to optimize your Kinetic by Windstream internet performance any other day:
- Correct gateway placement ensures maximum and uniform WiFi coverage – find an unobstructed and elevated spot.
- Regularly update the firmware of your gateway/router and devices.
- Update your WiFi network password every few months or earlier to maximize security.
- Protect your home network with reliable antivirus/antispyware software.
- Replace old/outdated internet equipment and devices to experience improved speeds.
When to Contact Windstream Support?
Whenever you run into a network problem that seems too technical to resolve on your own, it’s best to contact Windstream Support for guidance. Common issues that require professional assistance include failed activation and faulty (or missing) equipment.
CALL NOWFAQs
Can I self-install Kinetic by Windstream fiber internet?
Yes, you can self-install Windstream fiber internet for your home. Simply select the “self-install” option at checkout.
How to install Windstream Internet for free?
You can save professional installation charges by opting for the Windstream self-install option; in any case, a service activation fee of $50 (prices are subject to change) is still applicable.
Can I use my own router with Kinetic by Windstream?
Yes, you can use your own router instead of renting equipment from Windstream – just make sure it is compatible with their technology.